Client Stories: board-certified San Francisco psychiatrist Eric Bender

Can you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about what you do? 

My name is Eric Bender, and I am triple-board-certified psychiatrist with a psychotherapy practice in San Francisco. I see children, teenagers, adults, and couples in therapy. I also consult with video game and entertainment industry professionals to help them accurately depict mental health issues and add psychological depth to characters and storylines. I have hosted multiple online videos for GQ, Wired, and on my own YouTube channel, consulted on the most recent Batman: Arkham Shadow video game, and I have been a guest on shows on History Channel, Reelz, and in films examining media depictions of mental health.

What motivated you to get a new headshot?  How old was your previous headshot?

I was redoing my website, and I needed an updated headshot. My previous headshot was fourteen years old.

How did you feel about your old headshot, and what were you looking for in your new one? 

I liked the old headshot, but I was looking for an updated headshot that would ideally convey something about me and put people at ease as they reach out to me for therapy or to consult on their media projects.

In what ways do you think your new headshot has impacted your business, visibility or job search?

I think the new headshots will help people feel comfortable reaching out to me. They can clearly see that not all psychiatrists have long white beards and wear elbow patches.

Have you received any feedback on your new headshot?

As people see the new headshots, they have liked how the headshots capture parts of my personality.

How important do you think a professional headshot is for someone in your field? 

It can be very anxiety-provoking to reach out to a mental health provider. Having a picture that gives people a sense of who they are reaching out to is very important. Ideally your picture will show the warmth and openness you want to offer your clients and patients.

What advice would you give to someone considering getting a new headshot? 

Be who you are. Be comfortable being yourself. Know that the photographer and camera will capture that if you are.

Were you nervous or uncomfortable with the idea of having your photos taken and if so how was the experience in the end? 

was nervous, but Jeff made me feel comfortable, calmly giving me direction to try to capture the best images he could.

How did you prepare for your headshot session, and do you have any tips for others on how to get ready for theirs?

I followed the detailed emails Jeff sent to make the most of the time. I did go with the clothing and attitude that I felt best reflected parts of me. I also asked questions along the way to be comfortable knowing what I was getting.

Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience or the impact of your new headshot?

I am eager to see how people respond to everything as my new website will be launched soon.

How was your experience working with S72 for your headshot session?

The emails were initially very intimidating, but, when I met you, it was nice to hear you say: "I tell people my emails are a lot scarier than I am."